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SPCA getting ready for Paws walk

Nadine Durante, right, and volunteer Sabrina Qureshi spend some quality time with Frank, one of the shelter dogs up for adoption.

— image credit: Neil Horner photo

Money is tight for non-profit groups across the board, but particularly so for groups that receive no government funding — which is why SPCA shelter manager Nadine Durante wants pet lovers to spare a thought or two for them this summer.

While drop-in donations are always welcome, Durante said there are several opportunities coming up to support the local shelter, starting with the annual Scotiabank BCSPCA Paws for a Cause event on Sunday, Sept. 11.

“People should start to register now,” she said. “It has been slow this year and this is one of our biggest fundraisers.”

Besides the walk itself, the event, slated to begin at 9 a.m. in Parksville Community Park, will feature agility demonstrations, a pet photographer, games for pets and much more.

Registration forms are available at the SPCA shelter on Alberni Highway as well as online at spca.ca/walk.

“Whether or not you have a pet, you are welcome to come by and support the shelter,” Durante said. “We’re looking to increase the number of participants above the average of about 50 people.”

Raffle tickets to support the shelter can be purchased at various locations around town, as well as at the shelter. The draw will be held during the Paws for a Cause event.

Now is also the time, she added, for pet owners — and even former owners of now-deceased pets, to consider signing up to have their best friend’s picture included in the annual SPCA pet calendar.

The deadline to purchase a spot in the calendar is Aug. 31. She said a photo can be included on a particular day of your choosing for $25, while it’s $150 for the pet of the month spot.

Finally, Durante said the shelter is putting out a call for gently used books and smaller household items for their annual book sale and flea market, slated for Sept. 30 and Oct. 1 at Wembley Mall. Items can be dropped off at the shelter from Tuesday to Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

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